Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The U.S. Department of Education has launched a Title IX investigation into Washington state's Superintendent's Office regarding gender inclusivity policies. Complaints allege that the state mandates schools to allow biological males in female sports and facilities, potentially violating Title IX and risking federal funding.
Whatcom County Parks and Recreation will close the Stimpson Family Nature Preserve parking lot on May 6 for sign installation. The lot will reopen the following morning, although construction will continue beyond that day. Visitors should plan accordingly.
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Auxiliary Communication Service seeks individuals interested in ham radio, emphasizing its benefits for emergency communication and community engagement. Training sessions for aspiring radio operators will begin on May 31 at the Emergency Operations Center in Bellingham.
A traffic accident in Lynden, WA, claimed the life of school bus driver Annette Lyon on Thursday morning. The bus collided with an SUV, but no students were on board at the time. The cause of the crash is under investigation, and authorities seek witnesses or dashcam footage.
A local real estate agent in Whatcom County, WA, answers common questions about buying and selling homes as spring approaches. Key advice includes the importance of financial readiness and understanding market conditions, as well as tips for home staging and pricing.
Beach Cat Brewing will expand to a new location on the Bellingham waterfront in 2025. The brewery will enhance production capacity from seven to thirty kegs per brew and offer a wider variety of beverages, including hard seltzer and non-alcoholic options.
Bellingham City Council approved the acquisition of land beneath the Roeder Avenue Bridge for a new city-owned skatepark. The Northwest Skate Collective, currently using the site, will collaborate with the city to finalize design plans and raise funds for the project. The city plans to allocate up to $1.5 million for the upgrade.
The Port of Bellingham plans to terminate its contract with sole developer Harcourt Developments during a meeting on May 6. The decision follows concerns that Harcourt's development pace does not align with the Master Development Agreement, despite previous successes, including the restoration of the Granary building.
Bellingham's minimum wage rises to $18.66 per hour on May 1, marking a $1 increase and exceeding the state minimum by $2. This change follows a 2023 voter initiative and will continue with future adjustments set at $2 above the statewide minimum each January.
Whatcom County's LEAD program, aimed at diverting offenders from incarceration, faces a 30% budget cut in the proposed state budget. The program, funded by both state and local sources, is crucial for supporting individuals with mental health and substance issues. Officials express concern over the impact of funding reductions on community safety.